Kennedy Center renaming void, US court orders sign removal

2026-06-01

A federal district court in Washington, D.C., on the 29th ordered the removal of President Trump's name from the Kennedy Center, saying there were problems with the board's procedure in renaming the arts venue the 'Trump Kennedy Center'. The judge said the board had no authority to decide the renaming on its own, adding that 'only Congress can make changes'.

Order to remove signs and official materials

The district court judge instructed the Trump administration to take down all signs bearing Trump's name and delete the 'Trump Kennedy Center' wording from official materials.

Trump pushes back on social media

Trump, who serves as chairman of the Kennedy Center board, strongly pushed back on the 29th, posting on social media about the judge: 'Shame on you'. He said that if it could not be run according to his wishes, he 'could not be involved', and said he had instructed that responsibility for maintenance and management be shifted to Congress.

Renaming unanimously approved in December last year

The board, which Trump populated with close aides, unanimously decided on the renaming in December last year. In the same month, Democratic House lawmaker Betty filed a lawsuit, arguing that the board had exceeded its legal authority.

Cultural venue opened in 1971

The Kennedy Center opened in 1971 as a venue to honor assassinated President Kennedy. Through performances including opera and dance, it has influenced culture and the arts in the United States and abroad. In response to the renaming, musicians and others have increasingly withdrawn from performances and appearances.

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